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Main => Raspberry Pi & Dev Board => Topic started by: proplayer77 on September 18, 2017, 10:27:51 am

Title: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on September 18, 2017, 10:27:51 am
Im starting a Raspberry pi project with Retropie.

Im gathering first all electronics and have some questions.

Heres what i have sofar gathered:

-Raspberry Pi 2 with wlan and BT dongles and memomy card
-2 speakers (taken off 5-1 system) + Speaker controls over the same systems board
-Handle + 8 button joystick kits x 2  + some extra buttons 1 and 2 playes, flipper and reset for Raspberry.
-HDMI to VGA converter with audio

Display im still working on. I threw away some old 17-19 vga/dvi lcd few moths ago, so i have to get some display now. I have been thinking 19" 4:3 VGA or if i cant find one its going to be 22-23 DVI or hdmi.
EDIT: got a 24" fullhd now in use.

Cabinet models are still also under planning, but i think its going to be full size. If you have simple drawings i would appreaciate that too. I have some that ive found allready.
EDIT: it became a bartop for this first project.

One big question is the power. I would like to have a single power button for all the electronics. Can i use a 5 to 12W, i would appreaciate links which models you suggest.

I dont know yet about the marque or other "tunings" - no plans for this, but all ideas are appreciated.

Project is dedicated for my son to show how and what we "old dudes" played 30-35 years back with the right feeling:).


Thx!

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: 1500points on September 18, 2017, 01:02:50 pm
for power in arcade projects, here is what I tend to do.

use a normal light switch from hardware store, drill a 1-1/8 hole and mount it so the toggle is in the center of the hole. nice and hidden and inexpensive.
that switch cuts the main power cord coming in.

the switched power in goes into a normal outlet box from hardware store wired with a normal/cheap 2 socket outlet.

Then a cheap little power strip plugs into the wired outlet mentioned above.  usually two for 6 bucks at Menard's in the extension cord aisle.
plugging all the electronics into the strip.

You CAN if you want install a safe power down script for the pi to do a software power down.  and add a momentary button on the cab somewhere.
BUT I've discovered in cabs I made for a church youthgroup that you can just cut power to the whole thing and not worry about the safe software power down.
Over a year of repeated power cycling every week and not one corrupted sd card.
even if it does corrupt, it is very easy to reformat the card with a fresh build (ie retropie).
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 19, 2017, 04:30:49 am
Thx, what about power supply?

What kind of power supply you suggest i use?

I was looking at this: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-FREE-SHIPPING-5V-1A-5V-10A-12V-5A-Power-Supply-for-Pandora-s-box/32670115734.html?spm=2114.search0204.3.1.3caH0b&s=p&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_2_10152_10065_10151_10068_10344_10342_10343_10340_10341_10304_10307_10137_10060_10302_10155_10154_10056_10055_10054_5470020_10059_100031_10099_5460020_10338_10339_10103_10102_440_10052_10053_10142_10107_10050_10051_5380020_10171_10326_10084_10083_10080_10082_10081_10110_10111_10112_10113_10114_143_10312_10313_10314_10078_10079_10073,searchweb201603_2,ppcSwitch_5_ppcChannel&btsid=03286e5f-a13c-47ab-9381-4b53fcb39aba (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-FREE-SHIPPING-5V-1A-5V-10A-12V-5A-Power-Supply-for-Pandora-s-box/32670115734.html?spm=2114.search0204.3.1.3caH0b&s=p&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_2_10152_10065_10151_10068_10344_10342_10343_10340_10341_10304_10307_10137_10060_10302_10155_10154_10056_10055_10054_5470020_10059_100031_10099_5460020_10338_10339_10103_10102_440_10052_10053_10142_10107_10050_10051_5380020_10171_10326_10084_10083_10080_10082_10081_10110_10111_10112_10113_10114_143_10312_10313_10314_10078_10079_10073,searchweb201603_2,ppcSwitch_5_ppcChannel&btsid=03286e5f-a13c-47ab-9381-4b53fcb39aba)

I need power for:

Raspberry
Sound amp
Display
Some lights

it has 1A,5A,10A - so if i can give 220 for this form one input and then use this to give power to all other devices.



Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: 1500points on September 19, 2017, 08:18:27 am
I only use an arcade switching power supply for builds involving a jamma harness and a pcb.

For a pi build, think of how you power your living room tv and all the stuff plugged in around it like a game console, sound bar, lighting.
Your lights, sound and such are likely just normal AC plugins, aren't they?  Like you could plug into the wall?
For the Pi, you only need a micro USB power source.  For that matter you could buy a "powered" USB hub and plug the Pi directly into that to power it.

So all you really need is a normal AC power strip like you might have under your computer desk

If this is going to be in a smaller closed container you might want to get a little 30mm fan on amazon or ebay. they are usually around 2.50 shipped.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: barrymossel on September 20, 2017, 02:17:48 am
Im starting a Raspberry pi project with Retropie.

Im gathering first all electronics and have some questions.

Heres what i have sofar gathered:

-Raspberry Pi 2 with wlan and BT dongles and memomy card
-2 speakers (taken off 5-1 system) + Speaker controls over the same systems board
-Handle + 8 button joystick kits x 2  + some extra buttons 1 and 2 playes, flipper and reset for Raspberry.
-HDMI to VGA converter with audio

Display im still working on. I threw away some old 17-19 vga/dvi lcd few moths ago, so i have to get some display now. I have been thinking 19" 4:3 VGA or if i cant find one its going to be 22-23 DVI or hdmi.

Cabinet models are still also under planning, but i think its going to be full size. If you have simple drawings i would appreaciate that too. I have some that ive found allready.

One big question is the power. I would like to have a single power button for all the electronics. Can i use a 5 to 12W, i would appreaciate links which models you suggest.

I dont know yet about the marque or other "tunings" - no plans for this, but all ideas are appreciated.

Project is dedicated for my son to show how and what we "old dudes" played 30-35 years back with the right feeling:).


Thx!
I guess you first should decide what exactly you want to power. All depends on what electronics you decide to use.

So different voltages, but as 1500points says: all separate power supplies are plugged in AC (110/230V). So a AC strip (with switch) would be perfect. Just place it in your cabinet and solder a switch, so you can turn of AC power from the outside. Or use something like these: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panel-Mount-Rocker-Switch-IEC320-C14-Plug-Power-Socket-AC-250V-10A-Black-/ (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panel-Mount-Rocker-Switch-IEC320-C14-Plug-Power-Socket-AC-250V-10A-Black-/)
Make sure you power down the RPi from within RetroPie before switching the AC, to minimize the risk of sd card corruption.  If you are as lazy as me you can even get a power down circuit like the Mausberry circuit or the PowerBlock. They work with a switch that safely powers down the RPi (without having to use the option in RetroPie). When you use that in conjunction with something like this https://goo.gl/usgWKo (https://goo.gl/usgWKo) you don't need the AC switch (as the RPi will turn off all other electronics).

By the way, why do you use a RPi2 and not a RPi3? Did you already own that? In my opinion RetroPie runs way (!) better on the 3. But for quite some emulators the 2 runs fine as well. Just depending on what you want to achieve with it...
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 20, 2017, 06:21:58 am
Hi!

Im using Pi 2 B now, also have the first one B. I might be updating to 3 B before im done, but well see.

Im a bit lost here with the power supply. Maybe im thinking too difficult :).

One more time:

As i need 220V to the cabinet (here in Finland its 220V), i need to divide that incoming powet with some easy way inside the cabin to get different voltages.

So 220V -> 5V, 12V i think will do. I ordered today the power supply i linked from alixpress before, heres almost similar device: https://www.diyarcade.com.au/arcade-power-supply. (https://www.diyarcade.com.au/arcade-power-supply.)

So my first simple question is that if i add from this device an on/off switch before its in the wall getting 220V - is it ok? Then this handles all power to the cabin. If i do so i need to have some way to power down the Rpi before all power is gone?

Then i can take 5V and 12V from this device to all devices i need: RPi, Display, Sounds and lights.

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: plazma on September 20, 2017, 06:32:42 am
RPi 3 is only 29,90€ at Gigantti and Power stores in Finland.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: 1500points on September 20, 2017, 10:53:14 am
Oh, I didn't realize you were in Finland.  I have never been overseas so I'm woefully unfamiliar with the power grid.

But from a general safety perspective about wiring.
For the 220 power coming into the arcade box, put the main on/off switch on one of the wires coming in. 
That way you are breaking the power to the whole box with the main switch.
When that switch is off you will know for sure that no power is in the machine which is a big safety factor.

here is some history background just to be aware:
In old arcade machines they would bring the main power into an isolation transformer which broke off all the voltages and also served as isolation for the crt arcade monitor.
power was always live to the transformer and had an outlet on it for plugging in things like a light or soldering iron.
The cabinet on/off would control the power to the items in the game like lights/pcb/monitor.
In modern day that isn't really the safest way to think about power for an old electronic item placed inside your house.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: barrymossel on September 20, 2017, 02:08:46 pm
Hi!

Im using Pi 2 B now, also have the first one B. I might be updating to 3 B before im done, but well see.

Im a bit lost here with the power supply. Maybe im thinking too difficult :).

One more time:

As i need 220V to the cabinet (here in Finland its 220V), i need to divide that incoming powet with some easy way inside the cabin to get different voltages.

So 220V -> 5V, 12V i think will do. I ordered today the power supply i linked from alixpress before, heres almost similar device: https://www.diyarcade.com.au/arcade-power-supply. (https://www.diyarcade.com.au/arcade-power-supply.)

So my first simple question is that if i add from this device an on/off switch before its in the wall getting 220V - is it ok? Then this handles all power to the cabin. If i do so i need to have some way to power down the Rpi before all power is gone?

Then i can take 5V and 12V from this device to all devices i need: RPi, Display, Sounds and lights.
That's not what we meant. I really don't get why you want to use that specific power supply. Why not:
And all that plugged in:
(https://static.bax-shop.nl/image/product/38570/153894/15a824ec/450x450/Lucas_stroomverdeler_4_240v.jpg)

Place that in the cabinet and cut off the plug, then connect that to something like:
(https://hfc-fs.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/iec-combined-inlet-panel-mount-small-800.jpg)

But yes, you should still turn off the RPi safely from RetroPie:
(https://delightlylinux.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/quit1.png) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIRVogLLfPA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIRVogLLfPA))

If you really want just one button (and power down safely), you can use this circuit: https://blog.petrockblock.com/2016/05/20/new-revision-of-the-powerblock-increased-flexibility/ (https://blog.petrockblock.com/2016/05/20/new-revision-of-the-powerblock-increased-flexibility/) or https://mausberry-circuits.myshopify.com/ (https://mausberry-circuits.myshopify.com/)
And then instead of the power strip mentioned before, use this one (where the RPi is plugged in to the master slot):
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Tvez6zOuL._SL1500_.jpg)
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 20, 2017, 02:18:20 pm
Hi!

Im using Pi 2 B now, also have the first one B. I might be updating to 3 B before im done, but well see.

Im a bit lost here with the power supply. Maybe im thinking too difficult :).

One more time:

As i need 220V to the cabinet (here in Finland its 220V), i need to divide that incoming powet with some easy way inside the cabin to get different voltages.

So 220V -> 5V, 12V i think will do. I ordered today the power supply i linked from alixpress before, heres almost similar device: https://www.diyarcade.com.au/arcade-power-supply. (https://www.diyarcade.com.au/arcade-power-supply.)

So my first simple question is that if i add from this device an on/off switch before its in the wall getting 220V - is it ok? Then this handles all power to the cabin. If i do so i need to have some way to power down the Rpi before all power is gone?

Then i can take 5V and 12V from this device to all devices i need: RPi, Display, Sounds and lights.
That's not what we meant. I really don't get why you want to use that specific power supply. Why not:
  • For RPi: https://www.raspberrypi.org/products/raspberry-pi-universal-power-supply/ (https://www.raspberrypi.org/products/raspberry-pi-universal-power-supply/)
  • For amplifier and or led strip (or whatever lighting): https://goo.gl/KN8NFP (https://goo.gl/KN8NFP)
  • For your monitor: the supplied 220V cable
And all that plugged in:
(https://static.bax-shop.nl/image/product/38570/153894/15a824ec/450x450/Lucas_stroomverdeler_4_240v.jpg)

Place that in the cabinet and cut off the plug, then connect that to something like:
(https://hfc-fs.s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/iec-combined-inlet-panel-mount-small-800.jpg)

But yes, you should still turn off the RPi safely from RetroPie:
(https://delightlylinux.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/quit1.png) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIRVogLLfPA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIRVogLLfPA))

If you really want just one button (and power down safely), you can use this circuit: https://blog.petrockblock.com/2016/05/20/new-revision-of-the-powerblock-increased-flexibility/ (https://blog.petrockblock.com/2016/05/20/new-revision-of-the-powerblock-increased-flexibility/) or https://mausberry-circuits.myshopify.com/ (https://mausberry-circuits.myshopify.com/)
And then instead of the power strip mentioned before, use this one (where the RPi is plugged in to the master slot):
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61Tvez6zOuL._SL1500_.jpg)

I have allready a 5V Pi power supply and 12V for the Audio, and of course a cable for the supply,so i can do this. I ordered that switch too. Thx :)

About Raspberry. I got a problem with the Pi 2 i have made a retropie image to check it out.

I get this error:

lvl0: Error initializing SDL!
No available displays
lvl0: Renderer failed to initialize!
lvl0: Window failed to initialize!
pi@retropie:~ $

im using mobaXterm and Xming, so i use Putty SSH style for now to get it running first.
edit:this was not an issue, as everything worked ok when using directly Pi, not via my computer.


Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: nitrogen_widget on September 20, 2017, 03:28:36 pm
re-download retropie image
re-write to the SD card.
I use etcher to white my images to the rpi.

If it still doesn't work try a different SD card.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: barrymossel on September 21, 2017, 03:09:46 am
I have allready a 5V Pi power supply and 12V for the Audio, and of course a cable for the supply,so i can do this. I ordered that switch too. Thx :)
Huh, but why did you order the arcade power supply then? You won't need it if you already have power supplies for everything. A monitor probably just got a 220V cable and for lights you should get yourself another 12V power supply.

And are you installing RetroPie on top of Raspbian? Then check this: https://retropie.org.uk/forum/topic/6196/error-creating-sdl-window/
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 22, 2017, 03:51:00 am
I have allready a 5V Pi power supply and 12V for the Audio, and of course a cable for the supply,so i can do this. I ordered that switch too. Thx :)
Huh, but why did you order the arcade power supply then? You won't need it if you already have power supplies for everything. A monitor probably just got a 220V cable and for lights you should get yourself another 12V power supply.

And are you installing RetroPie on top of Raspbian? Then check this: https://retropie.org.uk/forum/topic/6196/error-creating-sdl-window/
About Arcade Powersupply: I can use it to other projects now that its allready ordered.

About Retropie: I downloaded the retropie image, and wrote to a 64gb memorycard. (https://retropie.org.uk/docs/First-Installation/)


 
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 25, 2017, 03:02:44 am
Project started. Some pics here:


Next step is to work with the marquee, speaker, back, and control panel woodwork. Using Plywood 15mm.

Still waiting for the buttons and joystick to come so no rush.

Also bought a Ryobi electric coping saw, which was a great tool to work with the sides. These projects tend to make toolsets expand in garage :).
Also using my cirkular saw and electric "mouse" sander.

I picked up a great FullHD viewsonic 24" for this project. Installation went fine and it was the measure how wide the cabin would be. :applaud:

Lots still to do but game is on. The bartop is about 60cm high and 60cm wide, 56cm deep.


Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: barrymossel on September 25, 2017, 01:58:01 pm
Good luck! Looking good already!
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 25, 2017, 02:35:25 pm
Thx! Speaker shelf installed. One step at a time...
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 30, 2017, 04:12:16 am
 Back parts (door and 2 other parts) cut and checked.

Also control board measured to cover the screens brand and buttons.

Made a 15-30 degrees towards the screen.

Controls havent arrived yet, waiting for them before making holes.

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on September 30, 2017, 04:54:16 am
Looking good, remember some ventilation holes!
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on September 30, 2017, 02:21:50 pm
Looking good, remember some ventilation holes!

Thx. Where do you suggest i should drill the holes? Backside or bottom? How many should i drill?
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on September 30, 2017, 02:23:53 pm
Heat rises so above your equipment.

It doesn't hurt installing a fan to help out either.

My pi has heat sinks and a mini fan fitted to keep it cool but monitors can chuck out heat to.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 01, 2017, 02:37:32 am
This is true. I have different sizes fans, have to make some plans for this.
Rasp heatsink and small fan is under control.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 01, 2017, 11:43:53 am
Checking in on your progress.  The project looks great so far!  :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 02, 2017, 12:51:43 pm
Thx! Tonight i made some progress again.
Going to use one big fan (quiet)

Display is quite big 24" so good to ventilate 🙂.

One question: any advice on making the button holes when i get the goods.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 02, 2017, 02:29:34 pm
you could use a 1-1/8 in paddle bit.
but these do a great job with a normal hand drill.

https://www.google.com/search?q=1-1/8+hole+saw&rlz=1C1CHZL_enUS757US757&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjex8Dex9LWAhVhxYMKHa0jCk0Q_AUICygC&biw=1517&bih=735 (https://www.google.com/search?q=1-1/8+hole+saw&rlz=1C1CHZL_enUS757US757&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjex8Dex9LWAhVhxYMKHa0jCk0Q_AUICygC&biw=1517&bih=735)
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 02, 2017, 03:32:40 pm
I always use hole saws.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: ivwshane on October 03, 2017, 02:03:23 am
If you are using a hand held drill than the hole saws are the way to go. If you have a drill press though, the forstner bits are even better and produce better results. I just bought a whole forstner bit set off of Amazon for $30 and it has 16 bits, 15mm-35mm.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 03, 2017, 09:32:33 am
Is this model bit ok? I havent received the buttons yet but read they are 30mm holes. Joystick hole has to be smaller ofc. Do you have a ready measurement plan for 2 player setup? I can ofc decide my own placement, have some plans allready.
Im still thinking about flipper (pinball)  buttons too to the sides but have to be sure not to make any mistakes with the hole drilling...
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 03, 2017, 09:46:29 am
My buttons are 28mm so you may want to double check that.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 03, 2017, 11:00:03 am
"DIY Handle 8 Way Arcade Joystick Kits 5 Pin 24mm/30mm Push Button Replacement Arcade Set Cable USB Encoder To PC Joystick Games"

Package Included:
1x Encoder Board
1x USB Cable
1x 5 Pin Joystick
8x 30mm Push Buttons
2x 24mm Push Buttons
13x Wire Cables for Buttons

I have 2 of those sets coming. So it seems i need 24 and 30.... In fact i dont know if this is the montage size or the pressing ends size :)

The extra buttons i ordered 1player, 2 player etc seems to be 27.5mm montage, bought them separately.

So i need 3 sizes plus the joystick hole. Is the joystick hole like 20mm?





Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 03, 2017, 02:50:20 pm
those little hole saw bits aren't very cheap.  I buy the less expensive model at our hardware stores and they run $14 US.

In the US, most buttons are 1-1/8 inch which is 1.125, or in metric 28.575mm
Old pinball machines also use 1-1/8 inch buttons.

It might be cheaper to buy all the same size buttons rather than a bunch of bits?
I've ordered buttons from Ultimarc in the past and they were also 1-1/8in diameter.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 03, 2017, 02:51:35 pm
Progress.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Project start - some questions
Post by: ugleymatt on October 03, 2017, 05:51:58 pm
Is this model bit ok? I havent received the buttons yet but read they are 24mm holes. Joystick hole has to be smaller ofc. Do you have a ready measurement plan for 2 player setup? I can ofc decide my own placement, have some plans allready.
Im still thinking about flipper (pinball)  buttons too to the sides but have to be sure not to make any mistakes with the hole drilling...

You one stop shop for button layouts

http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/layout.html (http://www.slagcoin.com/joystick/layout.html)
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 04, 2017, 01:58:44 am
Thx.

I may have a problem. The control board is 15mm thick. Can i use it directly with buttons. Read in some post that the board can be max 9mm thick??

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 04, 2017, 02:40:19 am
Depends on your buttons.

If you have threaded buttons like the 28mm happs no problem.
But if they are clip in style it will prob be to thick.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 04, 2017, 05:52:38 am
Depends on your buttons.

If you have threaded buttons like the 28mm happs no problem.
But if they are clip in style it will prob be to thick.

Thx, i hope the buttons and joystick arrive soon. Not a big issue to get 9mm material for panel. I think they are not a clip in style, well see :D.

I got myself a second hand old quality pillar type drilling machine to my garage workshop, have to test it a bit before making the holes to the actual panel.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 04, 2017, 10:01:56 am
Testing display and hdmi-dvi adapter that arrived today from Alixpress. Seems to work fine!
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 05, 2017, 12:18:41 pm
Having difficulties with N64 and SNES games, have them in right folder on mem stick but can only see sega metadrive, mame and atari games. Snes and N64 dont show? Any ideas.

Still waiting for controls, switches and ledstrips to progress, but tried to make a marque, its plexiglass but a bit high, cant get woodbar to fit under it. Ideas? Can make one thats not this high, had a sticker ready for this size so tried it first.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 05, 2017, 03:42:36 pm
Regarding roms are they the right file format?

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 05, 2017, 04:17:35 pm
SNES should be easy and the complete sets you'll find at the various sites online work fine.

N64 is just a bugger all the way around, real PITA.  I ended up getting Mario 64, Mario Kart and a racing game going but it was a LOT of effort and research.  Then the image got jacked, so I'm not sure I could easily retrace those steps.
Might be easier to just buy a cheap N64 console.  Thankfully they are still very reasonably priced.  shhhhh
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 06, 2017, 04:53:02 am
Regarding roms are they the right file format?

yes, sfc and smc and in snes folder on memorystick.

Weird!
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 06, 2017, 04:57:59 am
SNES should be easy and the complete sets you'll find at the various sites online work fine.

N64 is just a bugger all the way around, real PITA.  I ended up getting Mario 64, Mario Kart and a racing game going but it was a LOT of effort and research.  Then the image got jacked, so I'm not sure I could easily retrace those steps.
Might be easier to just buy a cheap N64 console.  Thankfully they are still very reasonably priced.  shhhhh

Its ok if N64 wont work, have so much other roms so no prob :).  Also i was thinking that can i little tiny Rasp really work with N64 as they start to need more from the accelerators.

Snes i have to get working as best games ive played with Dolphin sofar are SNES. Of course Megadrive is cool too thats allready working.

About controls: at this point testing with a keyboard and a Wingman controller i have to give the controls every time i start the Rasp? Why is this. How can i save the configuration easiest.

Buttons and joysticks have arrived to Finland, so next week im sure i get them and start working with the real controls and shout for help :)!.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 06, 2017, 05:26:24 am
The controls should save automatically once you set them in ES.

Unless you mean changing the controls for individual systems?

If so thats a simple task that can become a real PITA!

You have to change them in retroarch then save core remaps etc.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 07, 2017, 04:07:43 am
Snes came visible yesterday, so thats ok. Made the controlboard mounting. Im gonna try to not to make visible screws to the sides and front so thats a bit tricky part but well see. Im thinking when i attached the mounting first on the board that i can attach from inside (from backdoor) with screws to the sides.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 07, 2017, 04:57:50 am
Any screws on the outside just countersink them and fill/paint over.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 07, 2017, 07:20:09 am
True, but for the control panel they need to be accessable  🙂
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 07, 2017, 09:53:50 am
if you use strips of wood behind the panel you can counter-sink holes in the batting and screw into the underside of the control panel with no visible screws.

On my projects I use 1x2 strips as the sub-frame for screwing from the inside to the cabinet panels.  pre-drill and counter sink holes in the "batting" so it's easy to assemble from the inside.

When it comes to trackball mounting, you'd use round head carriage bolts which are going to be visible from the panel....the same as original arcade cabinets.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 08, 2017, 08:14:14 am
if you use strips of wood behind the panel you can counter-sink holes in the batting and screw into the underside of the control panel with no visible screws.

On my projects I use 1x2 strips as the sub-frame for screwing from the inside to the cabinet panels.  pre-drill and counter sink holes in the "batting" so it's easy to assemble from the inside.

When it comes to trackball mounting, you'd use round head carriage bolts which are going to be visible from the panel....the same as original arcade cabinets.

Interesting. Do you have a picture of this mounting style?
 
I made the button holes today. Learned again that if you make them both ways be aware to not press to end. I made first hole like this and it was a mistake. 15/16 holes worked out fine with only pressing/drilling from visible side. Have to fix it. Going to use carbon vinyl so the surface still has to be straight for it to attach.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 08, 2017, 08:40:05 am
I ordered these for powerdowning Pi and amp from alixpress. Im wondering as the powerdown circuit cost only 1 dollar for lot of 5 boards (including deluvery costs)can it really work 🙂. Amp costs 2,30€

I also bought the power chord you mentioned from local store for 14€. Ill put the Pi to Master and others to slave.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 08, 2017, 01:48:36 pm
I have a question about t moulding. Whats the best way to do it? What kind of methods you use? I was thinking about leaving this first project without it but well see.

Also if you have good alternative methods (if not making t moulding) i have ears open for suggestions.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 08, 2017, 05:10:20 pm
Best to cut T moulding slots before building or painting ;)

However you can cut the spine off the back and use 3M UHB tape to stick it to the edges.
I did it with good success on 2 of the edges of my bartop that were not routed for T moulding.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 09, 2017, 05:31:47 am
Did you also use screws to hold it, or dows the 3M trick needed?

I have chrome moulding (used in cars, 16mm wide) without the spine with tape. Im just wondering will it hold without small screws on few places along the sides.

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 09, 2017, 06:10:58 am
Mine held with just the tape, That stuff is expensive but super strong! Once it sticks you aint getting it off!!

Which is the downside really as if you ever need to get it off you will probably take chunks out of the wood!
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 10, 2017, 03:09:26 am
Applied carbon vinyl to control board yesterday night. My first experience with vinyling wood ever, so im quite satisfied with the result sofar.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: ivwshane on October 10, 2017, 11:46:28 pm
Applied carbon vinyl to control board yesterday night. My first experience with vinyling wood ever, so im quite satisfied with the result sofar.

I don't know if you covered it but where did you get the vinyl from?
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 11, 2017, 07:49:26 am
Hi, i made it myself, first time ever with this material.

I ordered the carbon vinyl from alixpress, a set of 2m , 50cm wide.

More pics:
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 12, 2017, 08:20:09 am
Any idea why i have to add controls every time , retropie doesnt save them. Also ingame start doesnt work in many games, same 2 player. Cant find good tech help for this.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 12, 2017, 09:01:44 am
Can you be a bit more specific regarding your control problem?

Are you setting them up in ES? Is it just a certain system? Etc
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 12, 2017, 10:16:49 am
Yes, emulationstation. 1 add them they work. In game they dont work (tried with mame,snes,megadrive). When boot have to add them again in ES.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 12, 2017, 11:38:56 am
Thats odd.

I would guess you have got a problem with one or more of your cfg’s.

Once you set the controls up in ES they should save automatically once finished.

As for the individual systems you can reconfigure each individually through the retroarch menu once you have loaded a game from that system.

But you need to work out why ES is not saving controls first...
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 12, 2017, 12:50:05 pm
You mean configs ?
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 12, 2017, 02:14:28 pm
You mean configs ?

Yeah.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 13, 2017, 05:18:55 am
Do you know a good site to get instructions for these setups.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: barrymossel on October 13, 2017, 05:30:10 am
I don't know if you did a lot of tweaking with your setup, but you might try a fresh install. Never heard of EmulationStation not saving the controls (and I experimented a lot with it). And it's not a lot of work to re-install RetroPie (unlike...).
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 13, 2017, 07:04:18 am
Not really, I found support for them to be lacking to say the least.
In my experience sometimes Retropie does something odd and you will spend hours looking for it and never find it.

So now I just start afresh with it and found that usually works out quicker as Barry mentioned.

I recently had a similar issue with my Mega Drive Pi.
Spent all day wondering why my retroarch configs kept changing, messing with stuff etc etc.
In the end the next day I spent about 2 hours wiped it and started again for it to all work perfect even though I hadn't really done anything different.

My best advice to you though is this: Use backups! Get the system to a "good state" then back up the SD images and continue on and back up after every stage. That way if something goes wrong you dont have much left to redo.
And at the end you have a back up incase your card gets corrupted etc.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 13, 2017, 07:34:59 am
Not really, I found support for them to be lacking to say the least.
In my experience sometimes Retropie does something odd and you will spend hours looking for it and never find it.

So now I just start afresh with it and found that usually works out quicker as Barry mentioned.

I recently had a similar issue with my Mega Drive Pi.
Spent all day wondering why my retroarch configs kept changing, messing with stuff etc etc.
In the end the next day I spent about 2 hours wiped it and started again for it to all work perfect even though I hadn't really done anything different.

My best advice to you though is this: Use backups! Get the system to a "good state" then back up the SD images and continue on and back up after every stage. That way if something goes wrong you dont have much left to redo.
And at the end you have a back up incase your card gets corrupted etc.

Thx, ive been busy last few days so this weekend ill try to get project further. I got the cases for speakers and have to decide what to do with the sides. Also leds are still on their way, amp too.
Ill try with fresh image. Should i update the Rasbian from console, thats one thing i havent done???? I dont know if it has anything to do with the Retropie mode. 
What software you use to make the image from sdcard?
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 13, 2017, 07:42:59 am
I use win32disk imager.

The best thing to do is get the latest prebuilt image from the retropie site and just add your content from there.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 14, 2017, 11:55:52 am
Same i use thx. Now it remembers them on retropie but turns other control around after boot. Up is down and down is up, left is right...etc. Weird! Any ideas? Also on emus like mame - how to setup them for them separately?

Added ledstrips today.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: Titchgamer on October 14, 2017, 04:37:44 pm
You can reconfigure the ES controller settings by pressing the start button on the home screen and re configuring the controller.

As for individual emus, load a game from the emu you want to re conf and press select and x button (i think it is) to enter retroarch menu.

You can then reconfigure as you please but you will need to make sure to have the save on exit function on otherwise they will revert back on exit.

Theres some good videos on youtube telling you the full procedure.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 15, 2017, 01:21:23 am
Ive done that but after a while it reverses one of the control to wrong way.

Ill check retroarch.

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 15, 2017, 06:32:07 am
Im thinking about next project allready to future. Is one of these milling pieces ok for t moulding? Which one?
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 15, 2017, 08:35:28 am
just get it directly from t-molding.com.  they make it reasonably priced and have the exact item needed.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 15, 2017, 10:30:39 am
Ok, ill check it out.

About the Retropie. I turned one joystick around and now it seems to work with both controllers all the time on emustation. I can also play snes and megadrive and atari games ok, BUT mame has issues. I cant even start a mame game once game is loaded. I tried x + select to get to retroarch of mame4all but cant find anything about controllers, only display etc???
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 15, 2017, 10:57:54 am

Both fans are running now when hitting power for the cabinet. I used a 12V DC, 500mA powersupply, it gives power to 12x12cm cabinet fan and also to raspberry pi:s 4x4cm fan which i attached together for powering.

I used a 10 year old Car Navigator power supply, perfect.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: 1500points on October 15, 2017, 11:20:58 am
For mame, hit tab in each game and map the controls like you would mame on pc.   For exiting game go into the ui settings in tab and set ui cancel to start and select together


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project - some questions
Post by: proplayer77 on October 16, 2017, 05:28:29 am
For mame, hit tab in each game and map the controls like you would mame on pc.   For exiting game go into the ui settings in tab and set ui cancel to start and select together


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ill try this. Yesterday the keyboard didnt respond on mame to anything.... :/
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on October 17, 2017, 02:26:28 pm
Ok, my usb hub seemed to be broken, now it got tab working when connected kb directly to rasp.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: barrymossel on October 18, 2017, 04:31:07 am
Ok, my usb hub seemed to be broken, now it got tab working when connected kb directly to rasp.
I can recommend this hub for a RPi: https://thepihut.com/products/7-port-usb-hub-for-the-raspberry-pi
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on October 18, 2017, 02:53:04 pm
Ok, my usb hub seemed to be broken, now it got tab working when connected kb directly to rasp.
I can recommend this hub for a RPi: https://thepihut.com/products/7-port-usb-hub-for-the-raspberry-pi

Thanks, i have one with own powersupply ill try but good to know alternatives .
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on October 24, 2017, 06:36:42 am
Project update:

im still waiting for

-new sticker for marque
-amplifier board
-electric switch

After that its all about decoration, if i dont leave it like this :)
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on October 27, 2017, 11:53:39 am
Some update on my bartop project.

-amplifier is still on its way, raspberrys own "amp" is terrible, almost no sound but im sure next week it will arrive
-electric switch the same :)

Marquee sticker came on tuesday and today i bought some u-rubber to get the plexi-edges done and secured properly.

Pics:
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: Titchgamer on October 27, 2017, 12:06:33 pm
As you are using a wide screen it may be worthwhile you setting the aspect ratio to 4:3 in retroarch.

Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on October 27, 2017, 12:38:43 pm
As you are using a wide screen it may be worthwhile you setting the aspect ratio to 4:3 in retroarch.

Thx, ill check that out.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on October 29, 2017, 07:32:21 am
Okay, i set from retroarch sixe to 1:1, and it made the screen to use 4:3.

I also set sound DB to 14 and the sounds are far better allready until i get the amplifier board.
Question about sounds on Retropie settings: Is there any setting for the sound being in scraper always 100%, now i have to set it as its always by default like 80%.

As i got the marquee done yesterday, the Bartop has been now in use for 24hours and children like it a lot :). I have all the new consoles and gaming computers and of course if you compare NHL98 to NHL18 theres a lots of difference, still -98 version on Bartop has its own atmosphere and we had fun games yesterday with my 10 yo boy.

I think i can announce that project starts to be finished, at least 99%. 3 more things will be added when they arrive: speaker covers, amplifies 2x15W, and power button. Now i have to open the backdoor and press the power strips on/off but thats ok for now.

Im going to leave the sides black, i think its good enough, plain and simple with some carbon vinyl.

Some pics at 99%:


Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: Titchgamer on October 29, 2017, 02:00:49 pm
The best bit is when you can start to enjoy the fruits of your labours :)
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on November 05, 2017, 04:41:29 am
Project update.
I used carbon vinyl for the speake shelf, when the right size grills arrive, ill open the holes.
I also put the chrome moulding round edges which was a huge success for the cabinet look.

Im going to mount the amplifier but it doesn effect looks as volume master control is going to be visble in the rear.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: Titchgamer on November 05, 2017, 05:50:34 am
Yeah that Chrome looks nice.
Think you should of gone with all white controls though.
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on November 05, 2017, 06:13:58 am
I have another black and white set allready in stock so yes, i might change the colors 👍
Title: Re: Raspberry Pi Bartop Project
Post by: proplayer77 on November 15, 2017, 12:33:24 pm
Ok, now the amplifier is installed BUT il having problems. Question: shouldnt everything be in stereo?? I think yesterday i got sound from both but didnt check. Now im definitely shure that only one speaker is giving sound and other just some silent sound or no sound at all.

In Retroarch i didnt find any adjustment for balancing to try /check if that could be the reason.

Simple answer is that amplifier is working only on one channel? Suggestions/thoughts?

The volume adjustment is on top, made a 18mm hole and im still going to put a chrome ring around the hole.